Angela at Tracing Rainbows has posted her 4th Pause in Advent post for this year and it is about loving all and ways in which to show that love for all, or a sort of a divine wish list: food for the hungry, drink for the thirsty, hospitality for strangers, clothes for those without, care for the sick, and company for the prisoner.
These are all very good wishes to have, I believe, no matter what our religion or belief systems may be, and not just at Christmas, but throughout the year, and without any conditions attached. Ideally, we do it not because we feel obliged to do so or because we expect to be rewarded for doing so, but because we are human and it is an expression of our human nature to feel empathy for another being.
I am mindful of the fact that I have control over myself only - my own thoughts, my own words, my own actions. So, I think good thoughts of loving-kindness ("metta" in Pali; "maitri" in Sanskrit) and say: "May all beings be well, happy, and peaceful; may no difficulties come to them, may no harm come to them, may all their needs be met, they be free from pain, sorrow, and suffering."
Blessings of the season to one and all.
Yes this is the last Sunday in Advent and also Christmas Eve. We attended church service this morning. Instead of the usual three services there was only one due to two evening services. The morning service was well attended. We will go back for the 8 pm Carol Service and love the lighting of individual candles, a darkened church and singing Silent Night, before the benediction given by the Pastor "The Lord bless you and keep you. The Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. The Lord look upon you with favor and give you peace."
ReplyDeleteSandy, the benediction is lovely. I don't go to church, but I do usually watch the broadcast of the midnight mass from the Vatican.
DeleteBlessings, Bless.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Live and Learn, and the same to you.
DeleteJust stopping by to wish you and your family a Happy Christmas. Hope you have a lovely holiday. Blessings also to you. xx
ReplyDeleteThank you, Suzanne. Wish you and your family a wonderful Christmas.
DeleteHappy Holidays to you and your family. I hope you enjoy time with your daughter. Thanks for all your lovely posts over the year and all the times you've visited my blog and commented. I read every one and appreciate the time you spend getting to know me and my family. Take care!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sharon. I am loving every minute spent with my daughter. Hope you are having a lovely time with your daughter, too. When does she go back?
DeleteAw, that's a lovely thing to say, Sharon. I have enjoyed posting on my blog and love reading your posts and seeing all the beautiful photos you post. I look forward to reading more in the new year.
Have a very happy Christmas and enjoy this time of the year with your family that is here (I know you miss your Mum and sisters).